You just got brand new braces, and you’re super excited about it. You’re optimistic about the coming results and grateful for the opportunity to straighten your teeth. However, when you recently smiled at yourself in the mirror, you noticed something troubling. Pulling up your lip, you saw that your gums appeared to be swollen. Is this normal? There are a few reasons why you may experience swollen gums with braces. From simple oral hygiene issues to long-term problems with excessive gum tissue, there are several fixes you can consider to reduce the swelling of your gums.
1—Adjust to Your Braces
Unfortunately, sometimes gum swelling is inevitable when you first receive your braces. Because your dentist must move your teeth, a small amount of irritation may occur. Additionally, braces apply continual pressure on your mouth, which might also inflame your gums. This is to be expected whenever your braces are adjusted too. However, these symptoms do not last forever. After a few days, your gums and teeth will become used to your braces’ pressure, and swelling should go down. If the swelling and pain do not lessen within a few weeks, you should contact your orthodontist.
2—Up Your Oral Hygiene
Sometimes, braces can make maintaining stellar oral hygiene more challenging. Not only do you have to continue brushing, flossing, and rinsing, but you also need to move around your braces. This may require new accessories such as floss picks or soft electric toothbrushes. It’s essential to maintain your oral health while straightening your teeth. Braces make it easier for plaque to build up around your teeth and gums, leading to irritation and potential infections. By keeping a solid oral hygiene routine, you can protect yourself from developing gingivitis or gum disease.
3—Consider Gum Contouring
In some cases, you may find that excessive gum tissue around your teeth remains even after the day you have your braces removed. Rather than allowing the gum tissue to interfere with your newly straightened smile, some orthodontists can offer gum contouring. Using modern technology, dentists can remove extra gum tissue through diode laser treatment. This treatment allows dentists to sculpt your gums for improved function and aesthetics. In this way, you can have an even gum line, lengthen your teeth, and create a more balanced smile.
Being concerned about swollen gums after receiving braces is entirely normal. With a bit of time, proper oral hygiene, and potential contouring as needed, you can achieve the straight smile of your dreams without compromising your gums.
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Buchwald is a trusted family orthodontist located in Frisco, TX. He is a board-certified orthodontist who keeps up with the latest medical and technology-based developments in his field. As a graduate of the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Dr. Buchwald is equipped with the knowledge and know-how to help you remaster your smile. If you are concerned about swollen gums with braces, feel free to reach out to Dr. Buchwald and his team through his website or by calling (972) 377-5940.